Side Effects of Advil PM
Advil PM is a combination of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce pain and inflammation, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that causes drowsiness, making it useful for helping with sleep. While Advil PM is effective for treating mild pain and sleeplessness, it can cause side effects.
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness and Fatigue:
- Diphenhydramine causes drowsiness, which is intended to help with sleep but can extend into the next day, causing a “hangover” effect where the individual feels groggy or fatigued.
- Dry Mouth and Throat:
- Dry mouth is a common side effect due to the antihistamine properties of diphenhydramine.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness:
- Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up too quickly.
- Gastrointestinal Issues:
- Like other NSAIDs, ibuprofen in Advil PM can cause stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, or indigestion. Long-term use increases the risk of gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers or bleeding.
- Headache:
- Though it’s used to treat headaches, some individuals may experience a headache after using Advil PM.
Serious Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Ulcers:
- Ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms include black, tarry stools, vomiting blood, and severe abdominal pain.
- Allergic Reactions:
- Some people may have a severe allergic reaction to either ibuprofen or diphenhydramine, characterized by hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.
- Kidney Damage:
- Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen can lead to kidney damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Signs include reduced urine output, swelling in the legs, and fatigue.
- Heart Attack or Stroke Risk:
- Prolonged use of ibuprofen can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in people with existing cardiovascular conditions or when taken in high doses.
- Confusion and Memory Problems:
- In older adults, diphenhydramine can cause confusion, memory problems, or worsen symptoms of dementia. This is due to its anticholinergic effects.
- Liver Damage:
- Though rare, long-term use or high doses of ibuprofen can cause liver damage, leading to symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent fatigue.
Who Should Avoid Advil PM?
- Pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, should avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen due to the risk to the fetus.
- People with a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or heart problems should avoid using Advil PM unless prescribed by a doctor.
- Elderly individuals should use Advil PM with caution due to the risk of confusion and other anticholinergic effects from diphenhydramine.
Tips to Minimize Side Effects:
- Take Advil PM with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and enhance the sedative effects.
- Use Advil PM sparingly and avoid prolonged use unless directed by a healthcare provider.
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